ID: Film poster for “Passengers” with the title in both text and ASL fingerspelling across the top. Image of a landscape view of New York City below, with two snapshots side by side showing two different men, with text linking the images: “He signed his way… into his heart.” Text between the images: “Dickie Drew Hearts and Jeremy Crittenden” with additional names below the images. Text block of credits on the bottom.
PASSENGERS
When: April 12, 2026 | 4:30 - 6 PM
Narrative Feature | United States | 55 minutes | American Sign Language
Director: Dickie Hearts
In this heartfelt American-Sign-Language and English-spoken, LGBTQ rom-com series pilot set during Christmas in New York City, Dale, a Deaf man, moves cross-country from Los Angeles to start fresh after heartbreak. His world flips when he meets Wyatt, a charming hearing man who doesn't know ASL or Deaf culture. As sparks fly beneath the holiday lights, Dale continues chasing his dream of a career in accessibility-focused tech while colliding with the fancy, high-rise world of Manhattan’s wealthy elite. Dale and Wyatt's whimsical meet-cute blossoms into a tender, funny, and complicated romance that dares to defy communication barriers.
*Immediately following the film, there will be a post-screening conversation with the filmmaker Dickie Drew Hearts, which will include a showing of the original 2015 short film that inspired this new project.
Closing Night Reception to follow. This is for in person experience at this time.
Content warnings:
Profanity
MIld Sexual Situation